Honolulu Community College to donate Christmas trees to students in need

HONOLULU — A slumping economy, mounting job losses, and a weakening dollar have made it difficult for many families to make ends meet. The financial strain can be even harder on college students with families. To help less fortunate students, Honolulu Community College (HCC) will be holding a campus tree decorating contest and will donate the fully decorated trees to HCC students and their families.

The campus-wide effort was initiated by HCC‘s student government, the Associated Students of the University of Hawaiʻi (ASUH). The donation of trees comes at a time when many of the same students behind the idea for the contest are themselves having a hard time financially.

"Trying to take care of my own family while going to school and working is tough in a good economy. I am very worried about how we (students) are going to take care of everything as the economy worsens," said Joseph Lewis, HCC-ASUH president. His concerns were echoed by many HCC students across the campus, many who realize that everyone will be impacted by the economic downturn.

The decorated trees will be on display in the HCC cafeteria from December 10-15. A total of 10 trees will be decorated by various HCC offices and programs. In addition, a request for clothes, toys, and other items has gone out to the entire HCC campus. It is hoped that gifts can also be given to families who are awarded one of the trees.

Anyone who would like to donate to the effort can contact HCC‘s ASUH Office at (808) 845-9268 or HCC‘s Student Life & Development Office at (808) 845-9219.

ABOUT HONOLULU COMMUNITY COLLEGE

HCC is an open door, comprehensive community college that offers a broad range of liberal arts courses and 24 career and technical education programs. The college is an integral part of the University of Hawaiʻi System. Students have direct transfer to the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, the University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo, and the University of HawaiʻióWest Oʻahu to complete their four-year baccalaureate degree. HCC offers one of the best educational values in the United States. Students enjoy high-quality education at very affordable tuition rates and receive instruction in small classes taught by well-credentialed faculty who are dedicated to excellence in teaching.